You’ve probably seen a lot of their trucks recently, carrying water for the natural gas drilling operations. They’re Equipment Transport, LLC of Carlisle, and its Chief Executive Officer, David Florance, appeared before the Hallstead Borough Council at its October meeting on the 18th to, as he said, lay to rest some rumors about what’s going on at the old foundry property on Main Street. And no, it won’t be a Wal-Mart.

Mr. Florance, local boy made good, is planning a waste-water handling operation at the site to service the gas operations in the area, which he figures will be around for another 20-30 years. He said the planning is in its “very, very early stages,” but he wanted to get the support of local officials as he moves forward.

As described by Mr. Florance, his company would install a modular water treatment facility using the latest technology to recycle waste drilling fluids back to the drillers. He pledged that the plant would produce “no discharge” into the local environment, presumably meaning especially nearby Salt Lick Creek as well as the already contaminated grounds of the foundry property itself; in fact, he said that development of the site would involve remediating remaining “surface contamination.” He said that the plant itself would occupy about 18 of the 29 acres at the site. The remainder would be graded off, environmentally “capped” and maintained by the company.

In response to questions from Council, Mr. Florance said the plant itself would make almost no noise, although he does expect as many as 100 truck trips each day in and out of the facility. He also expects that the operation may eventually employ 18-24 people.

Council members actually gathered an hour early this month to work over a budget for next year. Led by Borough Secretary Cindy Gillespie, they scrutinized each line in the revenue and expense sides of the budget, expecting very little growth in either. Taxes rates will not increase.

Final figures won’t be nailed down until another brief session before November’s meeting, but it looks like an increase in the general fund expenses of only about half a percent, or a total of about $125,500. According to the October treasurer’s report, the Borough has plenty of money in the bank, some $238,000 against about $19,000 in accrued liabilities, an enviable position for any entity. It won’t hurt that the state Public Utilities Commission recently announced that the Borough will soon receive a check for $25,495.12 from the fund collected under Act 13 of 2012 from natural gas drilling operations known as “impact fees.” The most significant increases in the budget for next year looks like they will go to paving and higher contributions to the fire company.

There wasn’t much other business on the agenda for the evening. A couple of residents attended the meeting to ask for help with neighborhood streets. Council expects to resurface Wright Street soon, for the first time since about 1986, according to one resident of the area. Another complained of increased traffic in the Pine Street/New York Avenue area that is beating up the pavement. Council promised to contact PennDOT about the problem.

The next Hallstead Borough Council meeting is scheduled for Thursday, November 15. Business sessions begin at 7:00 p.m. That evening, however, Council will consider a finalized budget proposal beginning at 6:30 p.m. All meetings are held in the Borough offices at the corner of Franklin and Lackawanna Avenues (upstairs, in the conference room).

The historic homes of Isaac & Elizabeth Lewis Hale, and Joseph & Emma Smith are to be restored. So said Stake President Keith Dunford on Saturday, October 13, at a special presentation by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The presentation was conducted at Susquehanna Branch Chapel, Locust Hill Road. President Dunford explained that the church’s far-reaching development of “Harmony Township” (now known as Oakland Township) would also include “The Sugar Bush,” a maple grove of paths for contemplation and meditation; restoration and preservation of the Hale/Smith slate headstones in McKune Cemetery; designation of the historic baptismal site on the Susquehanna River; and construction of the Meetinghouse and Visitor’s Center at the heart of the complex. Dispelling several rumors, he noted that the church will not be building any hotels or restaurants in the area. Entrepreneurs may see economic opportunities due to increased tourism because of this project, and decide to build commercial facilities to support that tourism, but the church itself will not be involved in such enterprises.

Before the church’s ambitious development and restoration plans can be effected, PennDot will have to complete its work. Route 171 will have to be realigned to the north so that when the Hale and Smith homes are rebuilt, they will be on the same side of the road - to the south of Route 171. The earliest that PennDot can begin that road alignment work is November, and if they don’t get started then, spring 2013 will be when road work commences. Either way, the church projects their restoration work will not be completed before late 2014, and a 2015 completion date may be more likely. President Dunford also made clear that the church is paying for the rerouting of Route 171. This road work is at no cost to local, county, or state taxpayers.

The most recent study of local site tourism indicates over 20,000 people visit the current monument. Once the development and restoration work is completed, church leaders expect that number to at least double. The Visitor’s Center will be staffed by three senior missionary couples. The Meetinghouse and Visitor’s Center will be constructed of Pennsylvania bluestone. So too will the garden area of the Visitor’s Center, which will feature statues depicting the restoration of the Aaronic and Melchizedek Priesthood. The brass plaque at the current monument will be moved to this garden area, and the current monument will cease to exist. While use of bluestone is stylistically, architecturally, aesthetically, and symbolically significant, its use could also provide an economic boost to the local bluestone industry.

President Dunford, while answering questions from the audience, provided a plethora of facts, history, and insights. In 1945 an individual purchased 137 acres of land in the area and donated it to the church. The church also owns 6.6 acres of land across the river, thereby ensuring its maintenance in a pristine state. Because of the land being so low-lying, and there being liability issues, the church decided against building a railroad underpass; tourists visiting the Susquehanna River baptismal site will have to travel to that site by private road crossing the tracks. And ironically, no modern-day baptisms will be conducted at the site due to liability issues; baptisms will be conducted in the baptismal font to be included in the new Meetinghouse.

President Dunford explained why the church considers “Harmony Township” (Oakland Township since the split in 1853) so significant in church history. In so doing, he provided the following outline of church history:

1787: Isaac Hale purchased land along what is now Route 171.

1790: Isaac Hale married Elizabeth Lewis and moved to what is now Susquehanna County.

1804: Their daughter, Emma Hale, was born.

1810: Susquehanna County organized out of what was Luzerne County; the Hale’s completed their frame house where Emma grew up.

1820: The latter-day church was restored when Joseph Smith, Jr., had “The First Vision” at age 14.

1825: Joseph Smith, Sr., and Jr., came to the Susquehanna River Valley to work at the farm of Josiah Stowell in Broome County. They boarded at the home of the Hales. Joseph Smith, Jr., asked Isaac Hale for Emma’s hand in marriage; Isaac said, “No!”

1827: Joseph Smith, Jr., and Emma Hale eloped to Afton, NY.

September 1827: Joseph Smith, Jr., received golden plates from a heavenly messenger.

December 1827: Joseph Smith, Jr., and wife Emma effected reconciliation with her parents.

February 1828: Joseph and Emma returned to “Harmony” with the golden plates.

June 1828: Emma delivers a son, but he died shortly thereafter, and she remained in poor health for months after.

April 1829: Oliver Cowdery became scribe for the translation of “The Book of Mormon.”

May 15, 1829: Joseph and Oliver were visited by John the Baptist, who baptized them in the Susquehanna River, and thereby restored the Aaronic Priesthood.

Late May 1829: Joseph and Oliver were visited by the Apostles Peter, James, and John at “The Sugar Bush,” thereby restoring the Melchizedek Priesthood.

June 1829: Three-quarters of “The Book of Mormon” translation was completed after Joseph & Emma, and Oliver Cowdery moved to Fayette, NY.

March 1830: The remainder of the translation of “The Book of Mormon” was completed.

April 6, 1830: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was formally organized under the laws of New York State.

1831: Joseph Smith, Jr., concluded all business in Harmony Township and left for the last time.

1839: Isaac Hale died and was buried in McKune Cemetery.

1842: Elizabeth Lewis Hale died and was buried in McKune Cemetery.

After sharing the above outline, President Dunford noted that while Isaac and Elizabeth Lewis Hale never became members of the church, they provided a loving home for Emma and a foundation on which she was able to build in helping Joseph establish the church. As such it is important to the church to restore her family home. The original home burned to the ground in 1919 when the roof caught fire because of the cinders from a passing locomotive. Drawings and pictures of the house do exist to help restoration experts in their work.

The work of restoring the Smith home is more problematic. No drawings or pictures of it exist, and archeology of the foundation will provide the key data to inform its restoration.

For those not familiar with the organizational structure of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a Branch is the equivalent of a parish or congregation in other Christian denominations. The Susquehanna Branch Chapel’s area stretches over much of Susquehanna County and into Broome County, New York. A Stake consists of multiple branches, a stake being the equivalent of a deanery or diocese in other Christian denominations. Stake President Keith Dunford has nine branches in his stake, and is completing his ninth, and final, year as stake president. All clergy - be they branch or stake presidents - serve in unpaid status.

After the presentation and Q & A session, attendees were treated to more Latter-day Saint hospitality: refreshments. Among the many community leaders in attendance were County Recorder Mary Evans, Susquehanna Depot Council President Roberta Reddon, Democratic State Committeewoman Nancy Hurley, SCSD Elementary School Principal Bob Keyes, and some 40 others.

All in all it was a memorable evening, made successful by many church members working tirelessly behind the scenes in the Susquehanna Branch Chapel, including and especially President Hansen and his family. Stake President Dunford made clear that the sacred sites being developed and restored are for the use and enjoyment of all, be they church members or not. President Dunford, a true exemplar of virtue, wisdom, and leadership, surely helped to bring this project to fruition through his tenacity and diligence. While able leadership seems nowhere lacking in the Latter-day Saints Church, his firm hand at the helm will doubtless be missed when he steps down in less than two weeks. Well done, thou good and faithful servant! And well done to all the members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from Salt Lake City to Susquehanna!

If there was a theme to Wednesday, October 17’s meeting of the Susquehanna Community School District Directors, it was Charity pure and simple. Gathered for the 7 p.m. meeting were School Board President Steven Stanford, Secretary Evelyn Cottrell, Treasurer Martha Stanford, and members Lori Canfield, Jason Chamberlain, Amanda Cook, Carol Jackson, and Holly Kubus. Board Vice-President Clay Weaver was absent.

Quick, unanimous approval of the board’s previous minutes, the treasurer’s report, the general funds bills, the food service report and the activity and athletic fund reports brought the evening’s agenda to Superintendent Stone’s report to the board. “The Susquehanna Community School District is very appreciative of Price Gregory’s donation in support of our student athletes,” he said. What he and the district were so thankful for was Price Gregory International’s sponsorship of this year’s night-lights for the Saber’s football game against the Lackawanna Trail Lions at William Emminger Memorial Field on Friday, October 19. That vital donation of $1,500 covers the cost of renting the lights to illuminate the field. Superintendent Stone noted that Price Gregory is an energy infrastructure company actively working in many of the municipalities that make up Susquehanna Community School District.

According To Bronson Stone, Receiving the Donation from Price Gregory, “The Susquehanna Community School District is very appreciative of Price Gregory’s donation in support of our student athletes.”

“Charity” held her head high again a few minutes later when Earle Wooton and Peter Quigg, Chairman and President, respectively, of the Community Foundation of the Endless Mountains spoke during the Public Comment Period for a combined 10 minutes about their mission, their relationship with projects and scholarships for Susquehanna and Wyoming County school districts, and their specific report with regard to SCSD. Mr. Quigg made the following points with regard to the Susquehanna Community School District Foundation:

SCSD students benefit from 13 endowment funds with a total combined value of $415,000, 11 being funds for college scholarships and two providing assistance for school district projects.

The Foundation’s Year-to-date return on investment is an impressive 12.85%.

Since 2004 The Foundation has provided tuition assistance to SCSD students attending the Susquehanna County Career & Technology Center.

Since 2003 The Foundation has provided Pre-School tuition assistance to low and moderate income SCSD families so their children can be prepared for kindergarten.

The Foundation’s administration of Project Lead the Way in partnership with PNB and Pennstar Bank provides $8,000 per year in scholarships to SCSD students.

Messrs. Wooton and Quigg stressed that The Community Foundation encourages alumnae of SCSD who wish to make donations, no matter how big or small, or those wishing to set up an endowment for SCSD students, to contact his organization. The Foundation is dedicated to maximizing return on investment in all its charitable activities. Most recently The Foundation took over administration of the Beatrice Reynolds Scholarship Fund. The current legal proceedings concerning the Fiaschi Testamentary Trust, when finished in the next few months, will complete the school district’s transfer of scholarships to The Foundation’s domain of stewardship.

Oh yes, events that concerned education received their due during the course of the 40 minute meeting also. Superintendent Stone passed out the a seven-page summary of the school district’s Comprehensive Strategic Plan for the period July 1, 2013 through June 30, 2019. The plan, having been formally proposed at the September meeting, was voted upon for final approval at this meeting after aging the minimum 28 days mandated by state law. The board’s approval was unanimous, and with that approval, the district may proceed with submission to the state Department of Education for their review and comment. Should they require any changes, it will be returned to the district for reworking. Those interested may view it at the district’s website when it is placed online in the near future.

A report already online at the district’s website is the School District’s 2012 Report Card. Both the elementary and high school, as well as the district overall, compare quite favorably to statewide achievement levels in many respects. While the report card shows that both the elementary school and the district met AYP (Adequate Yearly Progress), the high school narrowly missed its target and has received warning. Superintendent Stone pointed out that nearly half of all public schools in the state did not make AYP. He added that Pennsylvania is one of only eight states that has neither requested nor received a waiver from the “No Child Left Behind” Program. Mr. Stone is not shy in expressing his judgment that this happenstance is not by accident, and ulterior political motives underlie it. That all Pennsylvania public schools, including SCSD, are destined to “fail” under the 100% achievement standard is a given. Those wishing to express their opinion on the matter, he opined, should contact their state representative and urge them to have the state apply for a waiver, just as 42 other states have quite reasonably and rationally done so.

Some 25 minutes into the meeting, the board took action to replace the district’s “No Nit Protocol” with a “First Treatment Protocol.” Because of this protocol change, students will no longer be sent home when discovered to have head lice. Instead they will be treated with a specialized lice comb and returned to the classroom. Superintendent Stone emphasized that by this procedure all head lice are killed so no other students are put at risk. Additionally, the child so treated is less at risk for stigmatization, while also not losing valuable educational time that must later be made up.

Among those hired by the board at the October 17 meeting were Karyn Armitage and Dori Spencer for after-school tutoring teachers; Kim Garrison for Boys Volleyball Scorer for 2013; Ray Testa, Jr. for the Varsity Boys Basketball Scorer position for the 2012/2013 season; and Joshua Carpenter for Junior High Baseball Coach for 2013. And as Elementary Wrestling Volunteers the board approved Paul Rooney, Chad Groover, and William Collins. Approved as volunteer for Junior High Boys Basketball for the 2012/2013 school year was Jeff Baldwin.

Richard Wade of Whitney Point, NY, was approved as Music K-12 Substitute teacher. Other substitutes approved were Kyle Cook, Michael Ervin, Zachery Knott, Wendy Hansen, and Dan Maurer. Board member Amanda Cook abstained on the resolution approving hiring of Kyle Cook. All other motions through the evening’s entirety were approved unanimously.

Other personnel actions included the approval of Leave of Absence for Stacy Thatcher, effective November 13, 2012 through January 2, 2013. The board also hired Jessica Welch as High School Instructional Aide for the remainder of the 2012/2013 school year, and accepted Will Szill’s resignation from the Varsity Basketball Scorer position, effective October 16. Larry Todd was approved for snow removal this school year. The board further granted to Superintendent Stone permission “to tentatively hire pending Board Approval for any vacancies that may occur between October 18, 2012, and December 5, 2012.”

And before closing, the board returned to the theme of charity. The school directors approved Price Gregory International’s request to use the elementary cafeteria on November 22, 2012 from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Although no discussion of the matter occurred at this time, it had been discussed thoroughly the night before at the school board’s public work session. November 22 is Thanksgiving Day. Price Gregory has many employees single or separated from their families in other parts of the country. In order to care for them and provide them with a quality meal on that most quintessential American holiday, they requested the use of SCSD facilities. It essentially costs the school district nothing while building a closer bond between both entities and providing much good to so many people. Superintendent Bronson Stone volunteered to give up his Thanksgiving Day to be at the school and personally oversee the food distribution. While he may be far too modest to broadcast his charity, this reporter has no such qualms about reporting on the symmetry of charity, and how it oft times comes full circle. Kudos to the District, to Price Gregory, and not least to Bronson Stone!

On a sad note, Superintendent Stone reported to the board that “we are currently investigating some damage done to the district campus by someone who trespassed” on or about 2 a.m. Sunday, October 14. Someone in a four-wheel-drive vehicle drove off Turnpike Street, went down the outer bank, tore up the softball and baseball fields, turned around on the black-top, and zipped back up the bank past the Superintendent’s office. Mr. Stone assured board members that the school has surveillance photos and the perpetrator is being sought. If any readers have information concerning the incident, they are urged to contact the Lanesboro police.

At 7:40 p.m. the meeting closed, and business manager Gary Kiernan donned his donut-king hat (figuratively speaking) to serve up five flavors of delicious donuts. He and I discussed whether the world would end in fire or ice - depending on presidential election results - and how that might affect us personally. The fact that no school boards meet in November means we’ll chat not again until Wednesday, December 5, at SCSD’s next meeting.

There was only one visitor and one member of the press present at the New Milford Township meeting, aside from the supervisors and secretary.

Blue Stone Gathering, it was stated, had expressed intent to submit an application to DEP for an ESCGP (Erosion Sediment Control Ground Permit) for construction of a temporary Frac Tank Area (water detention site) north of Sutton Road and East Carey Road. This would involve water holding tanks. They had also submitted an application to DEP for Phase II laterals at the CPD-1 Site, for pipelines coming out of the compression station. The compression station had not yet been built. Also, an application was submitted for a GP-5 (Utility Line Stream Crossings) and a GP-8 (Temporary Road Crossing) to connect well pads 12/13 to pads 14/70/28 of the Pipeline Project. Pad 13 was not yet built, nor was pad 14.

Paperwork had been received regarding the PA Public Utility Commission. Leatherstocking and UGI Penn Natural Gas had applied to PUC to run pipeline through the towns. UGI had withdrawn their application in September; Leatherstocking would be the ones working in the area.

A while back NRCS (Natural Resource Conservation Service) had been discussed, as there were two streams which needed work done on them. Work could be done to restore a couple pieces of property along the stream beds. This was a grant program; 75% would be paid for by NRCS and 25% would be covered by DEP. The money would be passed through the township, Great Bend Township and Choconut had also received it.

A folder was presented for another compression station on the East Lake Road. Mr. Hunter held the binder up, explaining what it was and that it would be the second compressor station in the township. Mr. Hunter didn’t think it had been taken through the Planning Commission yet, but he just wanted to make note of it.

The township was slated to receive $277,000 from the impact fees. It would likely be used to pay off a couple of loans, for equipment upgrade purposes, and for the roads. Some would then be put aside for the following year, for additional equipment upgrades. If equipment wasn’t upgraded, Mr. Hunter stated, it went to the junkyard.

A visitor asked if any townships contracted out road maintenance to a contractor. Mr. Conroy said that he didn’t know of anyone who leased out winter maintenance. Mr. Hunter and the secretary stated that contractors were a lot more expensive than what they paid the local guys. The visitor thought that they would save on equipment cost though. It was pointed out however that if something went wrong or it were needed, the borough would have the equipment.

The flag had been set at half mast in memory of Senator Arlen Specter. This was explained in response to a question about the flag.

It was asked how many employees the township had. It was responded that they had three, besides Mr. Conroy.

The reorganization meeting, it was announced again, was scheduled to be held on January 7th, at 6 pm, with the regular meeting to follow.

Christopher William Race, 24, of Montrose, PA to 2 years probation, pay $200 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, not to possess firearms while on supervision, abide by curfew, take prescribed medication, participate with drug and alcohol counseling for Receiving Stolen Property in Lenox Township on September 6, 2011. Mr. Race also received 90 days to 23 1/2 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, not to have contact with codefendant, pay $350 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $250 DNA testing fee and submit sample, abide by curfew for Criminal Conspiracy/Criminal Trespass in Lenox Township on September 6, 2011.

Michael Kranick, 24, of Carbondale, PA to 8 to 23 1/2 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, followed by 5 years probation, pay $500 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, pay restitution to the victim in this case, not to have contact with anyone on supervision or with codefendant, not to possess firearms, subject to random drug and alcohol screenings for Burglary in Rush Township on June 23, 2012. Mr. Kranick also received 1 month to 23 ½ months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, to run concurrent with other cases, pay $400 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, pay restitution to the victim in this case, subject to random drug and alcohol screenings, not to have contact with anyone on supervision, obtain employment for Receiving Stolen Property in Montrose Borough on October 26, 2011. Mr. Kranick also received 12 months probation to run concurrent with other cases, pay $200 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $100 Act 198, subject to random drug and alcohol screenings for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia in Montrose Borough on December 3, 2011. Mr. Kranick also received 12 months probation to run concurrent with other cases, pay $100 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $100 Act 198 fee, subject to random drug and alcohol screenings for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia in July 24, 2012 in Bridgewater Township. Mr. Kranick received 6 months probation to run concurrent with other cases, pay $300 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $100 Act 198, pay $50 CAT Surcharge, pay $10 EMS, attend safe driving school program, receive a drug and alcohol evaluation for Driving Under the Influence in Montrose Borough on August 27, 2011. Finally Mr. Kranick received a $200 fine, cost of prosecution, pay $30 CAT Surcharge, pay $10 EMS for Drivers Required to be Licensed in Montrose Borough on August 27, 2011.

Joel Lehr, Jr, 24, of Montrose, PA to 11 ½ months to 2 years minus 1 day in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility followed by 7 years probation, pay $500 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay restitution to the victim, not to possess firearms, not to have contact with the victim, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee for Burglary in May 27, 2010 in Franklin Township. Mr. Lehr also received 11 months to 2 years minus 1 day in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility followed by 7 years probation, pay restitution to the victim, pay $350 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, not to have contact with the victim for Burglary in Forest City Borough on June 7, 2010. Mr. Lehr also received 9 months to 2 years minus 1 day in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility to run concurrent with other cases, pay $300 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, pay restitution to the victim, not to have contact with anyone on supervision, not to possess firearms while on supervision for Theft by Unlawful Taking in Clifford Township on June 28, 2010. Finally, Mr. Lehr received 11 ½ months to 2 years minus 1 day in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility to run concurrent to other sentences, pay $400 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, pay restitution to the victim in this case, not to have contact with the victim in this case, not to have contact with anyone on supervision, not to possess firearms, abide by 10 PM curfew for Burglary in Uniondale Township on June 29, 2010.

Johnny Henry Daniels, 37, of Bivins, TX to 15 months to 36 months in a state correctional facility, 11 ¼ months RRRI Sentence, pay $250 fine, pay cost of prosecution, not to possess a firearms while on supervision, pay $250 DNA testing fee and submit sample, supervision may be transferred to Texas for Firearms not to be Carried w/out a License on November 13, 2010 in Montrose Borough. Mr. Daniels also received 3 days to 6 months in a State Correctional Facility to run concurrent with the above sentence, pay $1,000 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $300 Act 198 fee, pay $50 CAT Surcharge, pay $10 EMS, attend safe driving school program, receive a drug and alcohol evaluation for Driving Under the Influence in Montrose Borough on November 13, 2010.

Guy Darnell Slater, 39, of Montrose, PA to 6 months to 2 years minus 1 days in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, pay $300 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $100 Act 198 fee, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, receive drug and alcohol treatment, abide by a 9 PM curfew, not to have contact with anyone on supervision for Manufacture, Delivery or Possession with Intent to Manufacture or Deliver in Harmony Township on August 15, 2011. Mr. Slater also received 12 months probation to run consecutive to the above sentence, pay $150 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $100 Act 198 fee, subject to random drug and alcohol screenings, continue with mental health treatment for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia in Harmony Township on September 30, 2011.

Edward Lynn Barber, 24, of Montrose, PA 10 months to 2 years minus 1 day in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, followed by 4 years probation, drug and alcohol counseling, random drug and alcohol screenings, pay $500 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, pay $250 DNA testing fee and submit sample, not to possess firearms while on supervision, abide by a 10 PM curfew, not to have contact with anyone on supervision for Criminal Attempt/Robbery in Great Bend Township on May 16, 2012.

Richard L Schultz, Jr, 27, of Nicholson, PA to 3 years probation, pay $250 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, pay restitution to the victim in this case, abide by an 11 PM curfew, subject to random drug and alcohol screenings for Theft by Unlawful Taking in Lenox Township on September 18, 2011. Mr. Schultz also received 2 years probation to run concurrent with his other sentences, pay $200 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, abide by 11 PM curfew, not to have contact with anyone on supervision, not to have contact with the victim in this case, continue with drug and alcohol treatment for Theft by Unlawful Taking in Lenox Township on December 8, 2011. Lastly, Mr. Schultz received 30 days to 2 years minus 1 day in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, pay $200 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, subject to random drug and alcohol screenings, abide by 11 PM curfew for Theft by Unlawful Taking in Lathrop Township on September 26, 2011.

Joshua Steven James Lee, 37, of Susquehanna, PA to 30 days to 6 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility served on weekends, pay $750 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $100 CAT Surcharge, pay $10 EMS, pay $100 Act 198 fee, abide by Pennsylvania Ignition Interlock Law, attend alcohol safe driving school program, continue with drug and alcohol counseling, not to possess transport or consume alcoholic beverages, not to enter any bars/taverns for Driving Under the Influence in Susquehanna Borough on September 11. 2011. Mr. Lee also received 12 months probation, to run consecutive to the above sentence, perform 25 hours community service pay $200 fine, pay cost of prosecution, random drug and alcohol screenings, not to possess transport or consume alcoholic beverages, not to enter any bars/taverns for Disorderly Conduct on September 11, 2011 in Susquehanna Borough.

Troy Evans, 19, of Forest City, PA to 1 months to 18 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility, pay restitution to the victim, pay $100 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, perform 25 hours community service, not to have contact with anyone on supervision for Theft by Unlawful Taking in Forest City Borough on August 19, 2011. Mr. Evans also received 3 months to 18 months in Susquehanna County Correctional Facility to run concurrent with the above sentence, pay restitution to the victim in this case, pay $250 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, pay $250 DNA testing fee and submit sample, continue with mental health counseling, not to have contact with anyone on supervision for Theft by Unlawful Taking in Forest City Borough on April 27, 2012.

Nicole Lynn Mace, 20, of Ephrata, PA to 18 months probation, pay $300 fine, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, pay cost of prosecution, not to have contact with young children without supervision, for Endangering Welfare of Children in Montrose Borough on December 6, 2011.

Royce J Hutchinson, 20, of Meshoppen, PA to 2 years probation, pay $250 fine, pay cost of prosecution, pay $50 Criminal Justice Enhancement Act fee, write a letter of apology to the victim, pay $250 DNA testing fee and submit sample, not to have contact with anyone on supervision, not to possess firearms while on supervision for Criminal Conspiracy/Criminal Trespass in Auburn Township on January 11, 2012.

MVA - On 09/02/2012, an Endicott, N.Y. resident fell asleep while driving his 1999 Audi A6 north back towards Endicott on SR167. He was not injured but his vehicle sustained severe damage and was towed by Bennett’s Towing.

DISABLED ABANDONED VEHICLE - On 09/02/2012, a N.Y. State resident ran out of gas while heading south on SR167 and was blocking the southbound roadway in a dangerous precarious location. SLTPD located the driver and assisted the motorist with acquiring fuel and resolving the situation.

CRIMINAL MISCHIEF - On 09/03/2012, a Silver Lake Township resident reported a vehicle repeatedly driving erratically on Arrowhead Lake Road. The vehicle owner was identified and the situation was addressed by SLTPD.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON - On 09/03/2012, a suspicious person was reported in the area of John C. McNamara Drive. The person had been seen two consecutive days and SLTPD checked into the situation and found no problem.

SUSPICIOUS VEHICLE - On 09/06/2012, a suspicious vehicle was reported on the North Road in Forest Lake Township. The vehicle had been driving up and down the roadway and pulling in and out of driveways for no apparent reason. The identity of the vehicle and driver was reported to SLTPD.

MISC INVESTIGATION - On 09/09/2012, a Silver Lake Township resident reported loud gun fire and explosions nearby. After investigating it was determined that the possible explosions were legal and there are no ordinances prohibiting the discharge and noise in the area.

DOMESTIC DISPUTE - On 09/13/2012, a Silver Lake Township resident reported a dispute between her and her boyfriend. They have children between them and she stated she was going to get a PFA from the courts ASAP. The situation was calmed and rectified by SLTPD in the interim.

HARASSMENT BY COMMUNICATION - On 09/13/2012, a Forest Lake Township resident reported that repeated harassing phone calls were coming to his residence day and night from different locations around the country. He was advised to call the phone carrier and explain the situation to them.

CHECK ON WELFARE - On 09/14/2012, a Silver Lake Township resident was having problems dealing with his spouses’ mental condition at the time. She had been in the hospital and needed further treatment. SLTPD got involved and helped with securing further treatment for the victim.

THEFT - On 09/15/2012, a Silver Lake Township resident reported that her mail order medications had been compromised during shipment. The postal service inspectors were notified to report the damaged package and missing medications.

BURGLARY - On 09/17/2012, a burglary was reported in Silver Lake Township. The actor/s forced entry through a side door and entered every room and opened every door and drawer in the home. They only took money and change that they could find. This incident is still under investigation.

BURGLARY - On 09/17/2012, a burglary attempt was made in Silver Lake Township at a business establishment. A screen was torn and an attempt to cut the glass window. The business has an alarm system which may have diverted the activity. No entry was gained.

CRIMINAL MISCHIEF - On 09/18/2012, a Forest Lake Township resident reported that his tires had been slashed. His landlord may have information on the actor. This incident is still under investigation.

FRAUD - On 09/18/2012, a Silver Lake Township resident reported that several different insurance companies had notified her that someone was trying to add car insurance to her accounts. This activity is under investigation.

LITTERING/ SCATTERING RUBBISH - On 09/20/2012, a Silver Lake Township resident reported dumping of garbage along the road near her residence. This activity has been happening repeatedly. They spotted a vehicle which made the dump and yelled at them. Investigation at the scene turned up nothing identifiable at this time. Raw garbage had been left. The residents will call again if this activity continues.

THEFT - On 09/22/12, a Friendsville resident reported a 9mm handgun had been taken while conducting a yard sale in Silver Lake Township. This incident is still under investigation.

SUSPICIOUS VEHICLE - On 09/24/2012, a suspicious vehicle was reported at the Baptist Church parking lot in Forest Lake Township. The vehicle was identified and located and the owner notified that it is not a parking area for non church related parking.

SUSPICIOUS VEHICLE - On 09/24/2012, a suspicious vehicle was reported in the Brackney area. SLTPD identified the vehicle and notified the caller that the vehicle was justified.

CRIMINAL MISCHIEF - On 09/24/2012, a resident on Laurel Lake reported someone had damaged her lake dock. SLTPD investigated the activity and the situation was resolved.

THEFT - On 09/25/2012, a Silver Lake Township resident reported that a coin collection had been stolen from his attic.

ASSIST OTHER AGENCY - On 09/25/2012, SLTPD officers assisted PSP Gibson with a DUI arrest in Choconut Township. The individual had been arrested DUI in Silver Lake Township two weeks prior to the accident. She was taken into custody for the warrant and alcohol related offences.

FRAUD - On 09/27/2012, a Silver Lake Township resident was the victim of credit card fraud where the actor was charging merchandise and having it delivered UPS overnight shipping to the card holder’s address and then trying to intercept the packages.

MISC INVESTIGATION - On 09/27/2012, a Silver Lake Township resident, who is currently in a custody dispute in N.Y. State courts, was concerned over the welfare of her current home situation in Brackney. She was advised that regular patrols in the area were frequent and that if they had a problem or concern to call 911 immediately.

SUSPICIOUS VEHICLE - SLTPD received a call for a suspicious vehicle near Chestnut Ridge Road in Forest Lake Township. The vehicle was located and a passenger individual was taken into custody for an outstanding warrant with Susquehanna County Probation.

*** SLTPD put out a media advisory for the burglaries and home invasions with multiple agencies assisting in the investigation. Anyone with information on these incidents is asked to contact Silver Lake Township Police at the phone contact or e-mail listed below.

** Any information or questions for Silver Lake Township Police, please call 570-278-6818 or e-mail at silverlaketwppd@epix.net. All information will be held strictly confidential. You can look at the Silver Lake Township Website at silverlaketwp.org, to see all of Silver Lake Townships’ news, profiles and resources, including the police reports.